Japanese military field anemometer (ca. 1930–1945) – A. Nakamura Co. Ltd., Tokyo

An exceptionally rare piece of military measuring equipment from pre-1945 Japan: a fully functional field anemometer from A. Nakamura Co. Ltd., Tokyo, used by the Imperial Japanese Army for measuring wind direction and wind speed in the field. The device combines a mechanical wind turbine, a precise meter scale in meters per second, a built-in compass rose, and a 360° aluminum directional ring with traditional Japanese cardinal direction characters.

The robust army-green casing and mechanical construction are typical of Japanese engineering from the 1930s and 1940s. The rotor spins freely, and the analog measuring needle responds instantly to movement, highlighting the quality of the internal mechanism. On the underside is the original tripod clamp, intended for mounting the device on a field pole, tripod, or artillery setup.

This type of anemometer was used during artillery measurements, aviation operations, and meteorological observations in army camps and advanced positions. Due to its combination of functionality, design, and historical context, this instrument is among the most sought-after meteorological militaria from the Far East.

A special collector's item for enthusiasts of Japanese history, military technology, meteorological instruments, or early field equipment. Rarely available in this complete condition.

This model was almost certainly developed for the Imperial Japanese Army (IJA) and possibly also used by the Imperial Japanese Army Air Force (IJAAF) during the period of expansion of the Japanese Empire (1931–1945).

Condition:
Very good vintage condition. Fully complete with rotor, original dial, wind direction ring, compass, and tripod clamp. Traces of age appropriate for its age; mechanism functions freely and smoothly. No breaks or missing parts.

Origin:
Japan, ca. 1930–1945.

Dimensions:
21.9 x 9 x 9.2 cm ( Height, Width, Depth )

Weight:
600 gram